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Georgia Southwestern State University Criminal Justice Graduate Follows in Family Footsteps


Jesslen Morris knew early on that having a college degree would open up doors for her future, which is why she worked diligently to earn her Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice at Georgia Southwestern State University through the Major program. 

Like many others, her journey included a few twists and turns along the way to discovering her career path and completing college. Initially, Jesslen began school at Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College where she studied agricultural education.

Switching to Criminal Justice

However, she quickly realized that she was more interested in another major, criminal justice. "Getting through my education classes, and deciding on switching my major to Criminal Justice, led me on the path to success," said Morris. She packed her bags and returned to her hometown of Mount Vernon, Georgia, and decided to finish her Associate of Arts in Criminal Justice at East Georgia State College in Swainsboro as a transfer student. 

After finishing her program, Jesslen applied and was accepted to Georgia Southwestern State University, which she refers to as "one of the best colleges" she visited to pursue her criminal justice degree 100% online. Jesslen's first semester at Georgia Southwestern State University resulted in her achievement of earning straight A’s, in addition to a spot on the President’s List. She gives credit to her professors and their dedication to ensuring her success within her major. 

All in the Family

When reflecting on what drew her to the field of criminal justice and law
enforcement, Jesslen shared that she grew up around people who were very influential, such as her dad, Allen Morris, who began his career in law enforcement with the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, and later became a Georgia State Trooper. 

"He is the main reason that I feel success in law enforcement is in my blood. My aunt, Danielle O’Connor, has been a perfect role model and has also led me to the exact branch of law enforcement I plan to join. My mom, Ginger Morris has always been an encouragement for anything I want to do in life. Her constant support helps me know that I can, and will, reach my goals. My sister, Dr. Jade Morris has always been the one who would answer the phone late at night when I was stressed with classes, and I knew she was the perfect person to help me through. The last, but certainly not the least reason I want to be in law enforcement is to help carry on my uncle’s legacy of helping others and continuing to get criminals behind bars. My uncle, Ladson O’Connor lost his life in the line of duty doing what he loved, and I have made many promises to him to continue the work he has done, and make him proud," said Morris.

Organizing for Online Success

Jesslen was inspired to complete her criminal justice program online because it allowed her to be able to easily manage the amount of classwork on her own time. She was able to work full-time and still complete her classwork and grow in her education. "Completing my college degree is important to me because it gives me that extra step and extra mile of success and knowledge and prepares me for the field of law enforcement that I plan to join," said Morris. 

Jesslen was extremely intentional in creating a schedule that allowed her to balance life and her many responsibilities by making the time to work on her schoolwork during downtime. "At the beginning of every semester, I create a calendar with all of the due dates in my classes and create a check-off list, so I make sure I never miss an assignment," said Morris. One of her strategies to finish her degree was creating a study environment where she could really focus, such as her office. 

Post Graduation

Now that she's completed her degree program, Jesslen likes to spend her time 
time shining up her car, riding her four-wheeler, fishing, and playing with her dog.
Her weekend time is usually spent with her friends and family. She is intentional about focusing on relaxing and spending time with those she loves, while working in her industry.

Her ultimate goal is to fulfill her lifelong dream of working for the Georgia Bureau of Investigation as a Special Agent. "I would love to be in the area of investigations and wake up every morning knowing I am living out my dream," said Morris. 

Age: 22
Degree: Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Degree
Home Institution: Georgia Southwestern State University
Graduation Year: Spring 2020

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USG eCampus is a service unit of the University System of Georgia that partners with USG institutions to provide quality, affordable, high-demand, post-secondary online degrees and credentials that address the workplace needs of Georgia and beyond.
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By Mia Fanning. Media Contact:
Katie Black, kblack@ecampus.usg.edu 

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